Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has encouraged people to continue outdoor activity but to also be careful during the COVID-19 pandemic.
They remind the public that social distancing guidelines should be followed at all FWP sites to protect their employees.
“These are trying times for everyone, and we all know that going outside is one important way to stay healthy,” said FWP director Martha Williams. “Like the governor, I trust Montanans to understand the importance of social distancing while recreating outside. Stay close to home when looking for a place to recreate, and please follow the governor’s directives.”
When a parking lot at a fishing access site or state park is full, FWP suggests considering another place to recreate.
State parks, fishing access sites and wildlife management areas will remain open only during daytime hours.
Overnight camping will no longer be allowed and will be giving current campers 72-hour notice to vacate.
Group use sites, playgrounds and visitor centers will be closed while regularly controlled by enforcement staff until April 10th.
Bathrooms at many locations will be limited due to public and employee safety concerns, because of a lack of personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies.
Regularly scheduled hunting seasons are not canceled as of yet. This includes spring turkey season, which starts April 11, and spring bear season, which starts April 15.
However, hunters should practice social distancing including limiting group gatherings and keeping six feet away from people.
For more information call the FWP licensing center at 406-444-2950.